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A persistent sore throat can be a source of both irritation and concern. Most individuals expect that throat pain will resolve within days of onset; however, when this does not occur, many begin to ask questions. Ongoing discomfort in the throat can result from an infection, acid reflux, or chronic irritation. Understanding the underlying cause early in the course of your discomfort will allow you to make better decisions about any possible complications you may develop. Understanding what symptoms you are experiencing, as well as knowing what treatments may be provided to you, can help you find long-lasting relief.
Persistent Sore Throat: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options
Why Does My Sore Throat Not Go Away?
In most cases, a sore throat due to a viral infection typically lasts less than two weeks. Chronic (long) throat pain will likely result from other conditions.
If the inflammation of the throat continues to be present, the throat will remain irritated. In addition, ongoing exposure to irritants can worsen the symptoms. Pain can also remain longer than expected if the infection has not been treated.
Common warning signs of a sore throat are:
- Throat Pain Lasting More than Two Weeks
- Burning/Scratchy Sensation
- Pain With Swallowing
- Hoarseness/Voice Changes
A Continuously Sore Throat Should Never Be “Normal”.
What Are the Most Common Persistent Sore Throat Causes?
Multiple causes can lead to pain in the throat and also have a long duration of effects. Determining the specific underlying issue is necessary to treat this.
1. Throat Infection
Bacterial or viral infections can lead to severe pain. Infections caused by streptococci need to be treated with antibiotics; however, those caused by a virus usually just need rest and fluids. Typical symptoms of throat infection would include: fever, swollen glands, and/or redness.
2. Tonsillitis
With tonsillitis, the tonsils become enlarged and painful. Continuous problems with tonsillitis can lead to a chronic sore throat as well as the possibility of having white patches and/or bad breath. Chronic tonsillitis usually requires evaluation by an ENT specialist.
3. Acid Reflux Throat
When stomach acid backs up during the night or after eating, it continually irritates the throat’s lining. Symptoms include a burning sensation, frequent throat-clearing, or a sour taste.
4. Allergy/Post-Nasal Drip
Allergies cause excessive amounts of mucus to build up, and that causes drainage down into the throat, irritating the lining. These symptoms can be aggravated by changing of the seasons.
5. Smoking/Pollution
Tobacco smoke causes damage to the tissue of the throat; however, air pollution increases inflammation in this tissue, and ongoing exposure will slow the recovery process.
The above examples of sore throats often appear as a combination of the causes listed.
Can Acid Reflux Cause a Chronic Sore Throat?
Absolutely, gastric irritation (also known as acid reflux) frequently creates chronic throat discomfort.
This condition is known as laryngopharyngeal reflux whereby acid refluxes into the throat when it should remain in the stomach. In contrast with heartburn, pain is often mild.
Common symptoms include:
- Continually clearing your throat
- Coughing with a dry irritation
- Having a hoarse speaking voice
- An abnormal lump sensation in your throat
Treatment options (lifestyle changes and medications) are generally very effective at treating this condition.
When Does a Sore Throat Mean Tonsillitis or Throat Infection?
Infections do not necessarily indicate an infected sore throat. A sore throat may indicate underlying bacterial conditions or chronic tonsillitis when combined with additional symptoms.
The following signs may indicate an infection or chronic tonsil issue:
- A fever (greater than 101°F)
- Pus on the tonsils
- Extreme pain during swallowing
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
Tonsil tissue may be damaged if the tonsils are frequently infected by infectious agents. Chronic tonsillitis can cause halitosis (bad breath) and/or changes in voice quality.
An ENT specialist will provide a definite diagnosis.
How Long Is Too Long for a Sore Throat to Last?
If you have had a sore throat for over two weeks, you should see a doctor. If you have had sore throat pain for some time, you could be suffering from something serious.
There are several possible reasons for long-term throat irritation:
- Long-term Infection (Chronic)
- Acid Reflux to the Throat
- Strain on Your Voice
- Rare Throat Growths (Tumors)
The sooner you are assessed, the better the chance of successful treatment and peace of mind.
What Treatments Help Relieve a Persistent Sore Throat?
There are many treatments available for throat discomfort depending on the cause. Prompt diagnosis allows for quicker symptom relief.
Medical Treatment
- Antibiotics (for bacterial infections) will help with throat problems due to a bacterial infection.
- Medications that help reduce acid reflux will help with throat discomfort due to acid reflux.
- Antihistamines (for allergies) will help relieve discomfort due to allergies.
- Pain medications (for inflammation) will relieve throat pain.
Lifestyle Treatment
- Drinking warm fluids regularly will help relieve discomfort in your throat.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol; do not eat spicy or highly acidic foods.
- Keep the air in your home humid with a humidifier.
ENT Treatment
- If you have chronic tonsillitis, you may require the removal of your tonsils.
- If you have chronic acid reflux, you may need continued treatment.
See your doctor about receiving early treatment to reduce the likelihood of symptoms returning.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist for a Sore Throat?
An ENT consult is needed for some conditions. If any of the following signs occur, consult a doctor:
- Throat pain lasting more than 2 weeks
- Difficulty swallowing
- Voice changes lasting for several weeks
- Recurrent throat infections
- Unexplained weight loss
An ENT physician may use endoscopy and/or imaging to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Seek early treatment to help avoid further medical problems.
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